How long croup contagious

Is croup contagious? Generally, croup is caused by one of the following viruses: Influenza flu. Parainfluenza the most common cause of croup.

Respiratory syncytial virus RSV. How long is croup contagious? How can you help prevent the spread of croup? Baby shoe sizes: What you need to know.

For this reason, croup is more common in the fall and winter months when cold and flu viruses tend to spread. Some of the most common viruses that cause croup are parainfluenza a group of viruses that are not the flu but that cause flu-like symptoms , respiratory syncytial virus RSV , influenza the flu , and adenovirus or enterovirus common viruses that can cause colds, bronchitis, pneumonia and other conditions.

Allergies — to food or something in the environment — may also cause croup symptoms. Reflux when stomach acid and food move back up into the esophagus can cause it as well. This is because both of these conditions can cause the narrowing of the airways that leads to croup symptoms. The classic symptom of croup is a cough that can sound like the high-pitched bark of a seal. Symptoms are usually worse at night and can also be aggravated by crying or frequent coughing. Most cases of croup last for about three to five days.

If your child is experiencing the symptoms of croup described above, there are things you can do at home to ease symptoms until the virus has run its course. One thing that will not be helpful in treating croup at home is over-the-counter cold and cough medicines. Be sure to keep a close eye on your child so that you can act quickly if symptoms do become worse; you may even want to sleep near your child since night time is when symptoms are usually worst.

If you notice any of the following more serious symptoms of croup, you should call your doctor or seek medical care at an urgent care center right away. Finally, if your child has excessive drooling or difficulty swallowing or starts to turn blue around the mouth, nose or fingernails, this is a medical emergency — call immediately. Since viruses cause the majority of croup cases, it is possible for one child with croup to spread that virus to another child who will then also develop croup.

Frequent hand washing and reminding your child to cover his or cough or sneeze with the inside of the elbow can help to limit the spread of germs.

PhysicianOne Urgent Care can also provide flu vaccinations to children ages three and older in Massachusetts and New York, and to children five years and older in Connecticut. Ah, allergies—you know the feeling all too well. Or so you think. Because during flu season, you might start questioning whether something more serious—like influenza—could b Read More.

Feeling anxious, stressed or sad? Your mental health is equally as important as your physical Read More. Most cases are caused by a virus. This is because adult airways are larger and are less susceptible to airway issues. Taking sick time isn't easy, but you don't want to spread your illness or infect your co-workers if you're contagious.

But how do you determine when…. Learn what you can do to prevent colds and the flu. Vaccines help protect children against many dangerous diseases. Find out what vaccines are recommended and when they should be given. Croup is a condition that's especially common in children. Fortunately, there are several croup remedies that can ease symptoms.

Croup, more commonly see in children, can occur in adults too. We share the signs and what you should do if you develop this infection. Croup is a viral condition that causes swelling around the vocal cords. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Is Croup Contagious? Medically reviewed by Karen Gill, M. Common symptoms of croup include: a barking cough high-pitched or noisy breathing stridor hoarseness or losing your voice low-grade fever runny or stuffy nose The symptoms of croup are often worse in the evening or when a child is anxious or crying.

What causes croup? Other viruses that can cause it include: enteroviruses rhinoviruses influenza A and B viruses respiratory syncytial virus In rare rare cases , a bacteria can cause croup. How is it spread?